Berhalter Has Breakthrough in Germany

Published 7:00 pm, Wednesday, February 12, 2003

Associated Press Writer

When his German league team was offered Gregg Berhalter six months ago, coach Eduard Geyer turned to the head of Germany's national team for advice.

Geyer asked Rudi Voeller if the 29-year-old American defender, previously with England's Crystal Palace, was worth signing. The Germany coach knew Berhalter from the World Cup, where his team edged the Americans 1-0.

"That's a guy who will be useful for you," Voeller replied.

Since then, the Trenton, N.J., native has exceeded expectations for Energie Cottbus, turning into the defensive leader of a struggling club and helping it put together a string of strong performances.

Berhalter's play has been so dynamic he earned a headline in Germany's biggest tabloid Wednesday. Bild thanked him for his play and Voeller for the advice.